Boynton To Vote On Ordinance To Move Billboards

BOYNTON BEACH — Tired of seeing those big advertising signs and billboards along city streets?

So are city commissioners, who have found another place to put them.

On Tuesday, the commission will vote on an ordinance that would allow companies that own the billboards to move the signs onto city-owned property along Interstate 95.

Under the current city codes, billboards are prohibited in all zoning districts. The proposed ordinance, however, allows companies to lease property along I-95 from the city for at least 10 years. The company would also have to renew the lease for at least one 10-year period.

The signs would likely be placed along the western portion of I-95, Planning Director Mike Rumpf said. They would not be allowed on the eastern side of I-95 because of the sound walls that are located there. Also, the signs cannot be placed within 2000 feet of an existing or approved billboard

City officials said all the companies that own billboards have been contacted and told about the ordinance.

Mayor Jerry Broening called the proposal a win-win situation for the city and companies. The removal of signs, for example, would free up land prime for future development. At the same time, companies would get a "prime location" to advertise their business. "Who wouldn't want to be along I-95?" he said.

Commissioners will vote on the first reading of the ordinance Tuesday night at their regular commission meeting, which begins at 6:30 p.m.